It is with heavy hearts that we announce the tragic death of 3-year-old Josiah Toleafoa, who passed away on his third birthday, a day that should have been filled with joy and celebration.
Josiah and his family were attending a kids’ party at Play City, which has an indoor parking lot where the event was held. In a horrible turn of events, young Josiah was struck by a car, leaving his family and everyone in attendance shocked and devastated.
Witnesses describe the horrifying sight of Josiah’s mother, distraught and screaming, while paramedics worked frantically to save her son. Despite their best efforts, Josiah was declared dead at Rady Children’s Hospital. The unthinkable had occurred, shattering the family’s world.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the accident’s circumstances. The driver, a 36-year-old whose identity is pending confirmation, was not impaired by alcohol or drugs. He remained at the scene and cooperated with authorities. The exact cause of the mishap remains a mystery.
During this unbearably difficult time, the family has banded together to establish a GoFundMe campaign to help Josiah’s parents with funeral costs. Josiah was a happy child, whose smile and kind heart brought joy to everyone around him, said his aunt, Tatiana Toleafoa. The thought of all the incredible things Josiah might have achieved if his life hadn’t been tragically cut short is heartbreaking.
“This GoFundMe page is for my sweet nephew’s funeral costs and services. He was a little angel who touched so many lives in so many different ways before he was called to Heaven. Anything at all, in any amount, would help,” Tatiana wrote.
The owner of Play City donated $2,000, and the landlord matched the amount, demonstrating the community’s support for the bereaved family. However, no arrests have been made.
We extend our deepest sympathies to Josiah’s family for this unbearable loss. Nothing compares to the pain of losing a child. Please remember them during this trying time and offer your sincerest condolences.
Peace be with you, darling Josiah.
